The reason almost everyone passes through Borj Mokhtar is the border with Mali, which sits a few kilometres to the south. The Algerian customs post handles passport formalities, vehicle paperwork, and the inevitable fees in both directions; expect long waits, careful searches, and questions about your route.
On the Malian side, the road continues through Tessalit and on to Gao, a long and exposed drive that requires fuel, water, and a serious vehicle. The crossing has opened and closed many times over the years in response to Tuareg conflict, banditry, and broader Sahel security concerns — check the current status with the Algerian authorities in Adrar before committing to the trip south.